COVENTRY City have confirmed an ambitious pre-season programme building up to their Premier League kick-off on Sunday August 21.

As well as their showcase friendly against Arsenal, who lifted the FA Cup at the Ricoh Arena in May, they will face Super League league leaders Birmingham City as well as Spurs and Manchester City.

“We’re really pleased with the calibre of the opposition we’ve got lined up for pre-season,” said head coach Paul Cudby. “To have the top two teams as things stand in the FAWSL will be a fantastic test for all of us.

“British Universities are going to the World University Games in China in August , Tottenham have just gained promotion to the Premier League South and Manchester City pushed us all the way last season in the Premier League North.

“Swansea will also be a tough test after they qualified for the Champions League via the Welsh Premier League, so just like our fast approaching season, there will be no easy games and plenty of tough challenges.”